Lenten pizza

Vegetable Pizza Cooked with Love

Discover the joy of cooking with a vegetable pizza recipe that is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe will guide you step by step in creating a pizza with a perfect crust, filled with fresh vegetables, bringing a touch of health to your table. Whether you choose to use fresh or frozen vegetables, you will delight in a pizza worthy of the best pizzerias.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 55-60 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Necessary Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup oil
- 20 tablespoons flour

For the filling:
- 2 fresh or frozen zucchini
- 1 medium eggplant
- 4-5 tomatoes (fresh or frozen)
- Tomato juice or tomato paste
- 3-4 bell peppers (fresh or frozen)
- 3-4 fresh or frozen mushrooms (or half a jar of canned mushrooms)
- A few pieces of celery
- 1 carrot
- 2 onions
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- Olives (preferably green or black, depending on taste)
- Cheese (vegan or regular, as preferred)

Spices:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Thyme
- Tarragon
- Oregano
- Basil

The Story Behind the Recipe:
Pizza, an iconic dish, has its origins in the art of combining simple dough with various fillings. This vegetable pizza recipe is a reinterpretation of tradition, paying homage to fresh and healthy ingredients. It is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.

Preparation Method:

1. Preparing the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and oil. Mix well to integrate.
- Start gradually adding the flour. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until the mixture becomes homogeneous and elastic. The dough should be easy to shape but not sticky.
- Form a ball from the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step will help the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

2. Preparing the Filling:
- Wash the fresh vegetables and cut them. The zucchini and eggplant can be sliced, while the carrot and celery can be grated.
- If you opt for sautéed vegetables, place a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Add the sliced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables become slightly soft.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and bell peppers, stirring constantly. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Let the mixture cool.
- While the vegetables cool, slice the tomatoes or prepare the tomato juice.

3. Assembling the Pizza:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking tray with a little oil and spread the dough directly in the tray, forming an even crust.
- If you chose fresh vegetables, layer the sliced vegetables on the dough. Add grated or sliced cheese and sprinkle with olives.
- If you prepared sautéed vegetables, evenly place them over the dough, then add the cheese and sliced tomatoes.
- Don’t forget to add your favorite spices for extra flavor!

4. Baking:
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust becomes golden and crispy.

5. Serving:
- Once the pizza is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into slices and serve with a fresh salad or yogurt sauce.

Useful Tips:
- If you want a thinner crust, roll the dough out thinner. If you prefer a fluffy crust, leave it thicker.
- Experiment with different types of cheese (feta, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses) for various flavors.
- Add spices of your choice, such as chili or paprika for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative and often retain nutrients.
- How can I customize this recipe? Add proteins like chicken or tofu to make the pizza heartier. You can replace the vegetables with others you prefer.
- How many servings can I get from this recipe? This recipe is ideal for 4 servings but can be easily adapted to make more pizzas or to use smaller trays.

Recommended Drinks:
This vegetable pizza pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade. A light craft beer would also be an excellent choice!

Cook with passion and share this simple and delicious pizza recipe with your loved ones. Regardless of the occasion, vegetable pizza is always a winning choice. Enjoy your meal!